Unlike most of the preserves in Manatee County, Neal Preserve does NOT ALLOW pets, and does NOT ALLOW bicycles on the tails. This preserve is specifically designed to be enjoyed on foot. Which isn’t a bad thing. In fact it makes Neal Preserve quite peaceful.
Open daily from sunrise to sunset, Neal Preserve is 120 acres of beautiful coastal habitat like mangrove forests, salt terns, and oak hammock uplands. There are shell trails and boardwalks that run through the preserve, as well as a 20 Ft. tall observation tower. The main trail is a 0.3 mile fairly level loop. Parking for the trail head is directly across from One Particular Harbor just off Anna Maria Island.
Neal Preserve is also a historically significant site. This area was inhabited by Native Americans from 3000 BC to 1400 AD. You will pass reconstructed burial mounds (original mounds were excavated by the Smithsonian back in the 1930’s), though remember that collecting anything here is NOT PERMITTED. This area should be seen as a “open air museum”.
Neal Preserve is perfect for hiking and bird watching. Plenty of parking at the trail head.
Address
12301 Manatee Ave W
Bradenton, FL 34209
Neal Preserve Manatee County information site
Need a vacation get-a-way perfect to walk the Neal preserve along with other sanctuaries within a walk and bicycle ride away. One Particular Harbor is a must vacation rental for you!
